What characterizes dug wells?

Dug wells are characterized by their manual excavation process, which results in a wider diameter compared to other types of wells. Typically ranging from 3 to 6 feet in diameter, dug wells are created by hand labor rather than machinery, which distinguishes them from drilled wells that are narrow and utilize advanced technology for their construction.

This manual digging leads to a distinctively open and wider structure, allowing for a relatively large area to access groundwater. However, due to the construction method, these wells may be more susceptible to contamination from surface activities and may not consistently provide the safe water supply that deeper wells do. Understanding this characteristic is essential for evaluating the safety and yield of different well types in environmental health practices.